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Devastating News as San Jose Sharks Mourn the Passing of Former Broadcaster

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Tom Banks | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 10:17 AM ET

Chris Collins was a key member of the San Jose Sharks in their early days, and now, the organization has tragically bid farewell to the icon after his passing.

The San Jose Sharks may have not won a Stanley Cup yet in their history, but over their 35 years in the NHL, they've had some iconic people come through the organization, whether that be on or off the ice.

On Monday, the team officially announced the loss of a key piece of the early days in San Jose, as Chris Collins, who served as a key broadcaster between 1992 and 1997 tragically passed away.

The San Jose Sharks organization was saddened to hear about the passing of former television and radio color analyst Chris Collins. Chris was a member of the Sharks broadcast team for five seasons, 1992-1997, and worked alongside both Dan Rusanowsky and Randy Hahn in the Sharks formative seasons in the Bay Area. We send our love and thoughts to Chris' family and friends during this difficult time.

His tragic loss was met with plenty of grief, with former broadcasting partner Dan Rusanowsky paying tribute to the veteran broadcaster on social media, who was instrumental in bringing the voice of hockey to San Jose in the early days.

Collins was also key in the Sharks partnership with China, being Founder and GM, and instrumental to the formation of the China Sharks back in 2007, and he'll be sorely missed by many in the organization and around hockey.

We take this time to send our condolences to the friends, family and former colleagues of Collins, and hope they know that we are all thinking of them during this difficult time.

Rest in Peace, Chris Collins.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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